In Memory of Jacob Valdiviezo

Apr 02, 2013

PORTLAND, Ore. – On March 30, the Lewis
& Clark community lost one of its own, in Jacob Valdiviezo, due
to a senseless act of violence. Jacob was a sophomore from San
Francisco who was interested in pursuing a degree in economics.

A wide receiver on the Pioneer football team, Jacob was home
visiting family for spring break when he lost his life. Jacob will
forever be remembered by all as a great friend and leader. Our
hearts go out to the Valdiviezo family as well as Jacob's friends,
teammates and classmates.

"Our community is shaken but we will come together to remember
and celebrate Jacob’s life and his impact on ours. Our hearts
go out to the entire Valdiviezo family; no words can describe
losing a child,” said Athletics Director Clark
Yeager.

Those in need of personal support are encouraged to reach out to
their personal support network or the Lewis & Clark Counseling
Center at 503-768-7160. Additionally,
please know that Mark Duntley, our Dean of Religious and Spiritual
Life (duntley@lclark.edu, 503-768-7082), and Valerie
White, our Ombudsperson (valeriew@lclark.edu, 503-768-7336), are
available for counsel. The College also has an after-hours
counseling service available at 503-265-7804.

“The team and College will miss Jacob dearly. He made his
mark on L&C in such a short amount of time,” said Head
Football Coach Chris Sulages. “Jacob lit up a room when he
came in, his smile and infectious positivity were amazing. He was
able to talk and communicate with people effortlessly.”

As the team prepares for the 2013 season, Sulages points out that
Jacob’s all-around leadership will be deeply missed.
“He was one of our emotional leaders on the team; always high
energy not just during games but in practice, the weight room,
class, the cafeteria, etc. He had something special that you
can’t replace.”

"Jacob was a very hard worker. His improvements on the
field and his development as a young adult while here at Lewis
& Clark are something to be proud of," added Offensive
Coordinator Phil Magbanua. "One thing that did not change was his
irreproachable character. He was a good person; he treated people
with respect."

"Jacob was selfless and always put other people first. He got
along with everyone he came into contact with and it showed in his
friendships that spanned across many different types of people on
campus. He will be particularly missed by, Patrick Sinnott, a
person of special needs that works on campus who took a liking to
Jacob. We will all miss him," said Magbanua.

Lewis & Clark will host a celebration of Jacob’s life
later in the semester. Those interested in helping plan the event
are asked to contact Mark Duntley.

A Facebook page called “Remembering
Jacob Valdiviezo” has been created “to remember and
commemorate the life of Jacob Valdiviezo.” People are
encouraged to share what they would like about Jacob (stories,
pictures, etc.).